Published at Tuesday, 17 September 2019. Backyard. By Georgette Vernadeau.

The approach we’ll use is very simple. We’ll create our backyard resort by combining exotic looking tropical plants with well-adapted plants that either look tropical or look good in a tropical setting. The trick is to learn what plants and how to combine them to create that exotic, tropical look. We’re going to use a simple layering approach. At a high level, here’s what to do: create a solid foundation, create the tropical landscape effect, and add the finishing touches.

So, How do You do It? If you were lucky enough to live in an area that never has to suffer extended cold weather, you probably wouldn’t be reading this to begin with. You would have a year-round growing season with no fear of freezing temperatures, and you could grow whatever you wanted. For most of us, that is not reality so we’re going to have to get creative if we want to create that exotic, tropical backyard landscape, our very own little tropical escape.

When creating a backyard environment, you should take some time to think about what type of wildlife you would like in your backyard, up close and personal. Being petrified of snakes and then creating an environment that snakes find irresistible would be a torturous mistake. This example emphasizes the importance of considering what type of animals you want frequenting your backyard. Specific plant life and bodies of water attract certain kinds of animals, bugs, and insects. Hence, in your backyard environment, you can plant greenery and create man-made bodies of water to entertain the type of wildlife you are comfortable with.